The role of the information specialist in academic research

Abstract

This case study investigated the role of an information specialist as an active team member in an academic scientific research setting. The information specialist attended weekly lab meetings for thirty‐nine scientists, who formed the experimental group, and answered any information requests they had during the ten month period from January to October, 1981. An additional twenty‐eight scientists served as a control group. The findings indicated that the information specialist was accepted as a team member. The scientists made extensive use of the information service and reported changes in their information habits. Online searches and personal files became important information sources. The service was given a very positive evaluation and most of the scientists wanted to see it continue.

Citation

Neway, J.M. (1982), "The role of the information specialist in academic research", Online Review, Vol. 6 No. 6, pp. 527-535. https://doi.org/10.1108/eb024116